Newbie question - pop-up / mold & mildew

[WYcamper]

Hey Guys,


I'm new to this whole thing. I just bought a used pop-up in really good condition. Because I had to leave the camper up on our property and drive home 6 hours (my wife had to fly out of town on an emergency and I had to watch the kids), I did not have time to completely let the morning dew dry off before collapsing and locking my pop-up down. Because of the Wyoming winds I didn't want to leave it up for two weeks before I can get back, so I am worried that the tent material on the pop-up will mold and mildew.

First question, what is that "plasticy" leathery tent material made of? It almost looks like the manogahyde from the 70's.

More important question - if I do get back there in two weeks and it is moldy, what can I do to wash off or get rid of the mold?

Thanks for all your advice,

WY camper

[HappyCamper1962]

Your concern is valid. The pop up has vinyl sided canvas that definitely grows mildew when closed without first properly drying out. How fast it grows depends on weather conditions; here in Florida the heat and humidity is so high that it only takes a day or two for mildew to start growing.

There are mildew removing products on the market that are safe for pop up tent canvas, or you can use the natural remedy on the internet below:


Removing Mildew
Remove signs of mold and mildew as soon as possible. Vinegar is one of the best canvas cleaners for pop up campers. Mix a bucket full of two parts water and one part vinegar. Dip a scrub brush into the vinegar solution and scrub the mildew off the canvas.